When asking yourself about something to do near me in Raleigh with a group of friends or family, consider
Sweet Fare
Why Sweet Fare is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Sweet Fare is a charming local bakery located at 1022 Ryan Road in Cary, North Carolina, known for its handcrafted baked goods and artisan chocolates. This inviting bakery offers an excellent ambiance for meeting up with friends, making it a great spot for casual gatherings or special treats. With a strong reputation in the community, Sweet Fare crafts a wide variety of delectable pastries, cakes, and confections that appeal to diverse tastes. The bakery’s attention to quality and artisanal approach ensures every product is fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented. Besides sweets, Sweet Fare provides a comfortable and cozy environment that encourages leisurely conversations and socializing. The hours of operation from Tuesday through Sunday (11am to 8pm) allow for flexible meetups, whether during the day or early evening. The friendly staff adds to the overall welcoming experience, making Sweet Fare not just a place for delicious treats, but also a warm, inviting destination to enjoy time with friends or family.
Here's what people think of Sweet Fare
As of recent, Sweet Fare holds a 4.5-star rating based on 41 reviews.
Customer reviews for Sweet Fare average an impressive 4.5 stars from 41 reviewers, reflecting overall satisfaction with the bakery. Positive reviews prominently highlight the outstanding taste and quality of the baked goods and chocolates, often praising the artisanal craftsmanship and freshness of products. Customers appreciate the variety available, the appealing presentation, and the welcoming atmosphere of the bakery. Many reviewers also commend the friendly and attentive service, which enhances their visit and makes Sweet Fare a preferred choice for special occasions or casual visits. On the downside, some negative comments have mentioned occasional issues such as limited seating during busy hours and the bakery being closed on Mondays, which can be inconvenient for some customers. A few reviews noted variability in product availability, suggesting that popular items can sell out quickly. Despite these critiques, the consensus remains positive, with most patrons recommending Sweet Fare for its delicious offerings and comfortable ambiance conducive to social gatherings. Overall, user feedback affirms Sweet Fare as a dependable and delightful bakery experience in Cary, NC.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Susan Harrington
VERY DISAPPOINTED!! All I’m saying is $8 for this. Y’all really playing in people faces. This is not an individual cookie cake. This is just a cookie. I thought when I was spending $8 for something called an “individual cookie cake” it would be around the size of an individual pizza (6 inches in diameter). What is this?! The box isn’t even 6 inches long. Edited: I did do an online pick up order however was not directed to a shop, but a random company. I don’t knock small businesses and is very understanding of circumstances (especially in the current economy). So, I never knew if there was a place for me to go into and look around (without the 30% up charge)… Also, a cookie cake is roughly the size of a pizza; given that it is only about an inch of cookie topped with icing. Apologizing that your product wasn’t “big enough for me” when you know (given that you are in the baking business) certain measurements for specific products. What’s the difference between a regular cookie with icing and your “individual cookie cake”? You don’t see individual cakes sold the size of cupcakes so please stop playing in peoples faces. Thank you!
Aurora
This is such a cute little bakery!! I asked that they do a gender reveal cake for my baby and they nailed it at the best price in both the Cary and Raleigh area. The cake was delicious and got so many complements 🩵
The Hunter
I was gifted two items from a really fantastic relative: a brown butter peach cake and a blackberry crumble. Both were excellent but that peach deal was on another level. I have decided that I really like something if I would get in a car and drive a long distance to get this......Absolutely I would for this. I ate it cold. If it's better heated my head might explode.
Scott Jordan
Went to Sweet Fare on a daddy daughter date. She loved the decor. Whimsical, she called it. It's geared toward little ones. I felt it was a bit pricey, but some of the combinations were interesting, like the key lime pie cookie. Overall, I could crunch sugar in the butterscotch cookie we tried. It was pretty good. However, as an adult, I'm beyond filling in flavor with pure sugar. Though one look at Sweet Fare, and I know I'm not the target audience. It was a cute little stop. It's too pricey for me to bring all four children to at one time. But it was a nice stop on our date. Overall 3 stars for food, 4 for interior and decor. So the kids will be all about it. As an adult, it was ok.
sid n.
Came here for an Uber Eats pickup around 1AM because the business was still showing as open in the app — and according to their hours, they’re listed as open until 12:30AM. It’s located inside a courthouse complex — there was lighting, signage, and even some cars in the lot, so it wasn’t immediately obvious that the bakery itself was closed. I called and texted the number listed and got no response, even when I tried again the next afternoon. If you’re not from the area, it can feel weird or even sketchy pulling up to a government building that late — especially when there’s no clear signage saying the business is closed. It’s not just about wasted time — it can lead to unnecessary interactions with law enforcement. Please update your hours and keep your contact info active. This is about safety, not just convenience. Food looks delicious though — wish I got to try it under better circumstances.
How to reach Sweet Fare
None
Website: None
Why rally at Sweet Fare with your friends?
Sweet Fare offers an inviting destination to gather with friends or family because it combines the charm of a local bakery with the delight of artisan chocolates and fresh, handcrafted treats. The atmosphere is cozy and welcoming, perfect for social meetups or celebrations. When you visit Sweet Fare, you’re not just enjoying pastries; you’re experiencing a community hub where delicious, high-quality baked goods serve as the centerpiece for memorable moments. Their commitment to fresh, locally sourced products means that everyone in your group, from dessert lovers to chocolate enthusiasts, will find something delightful to share and savor together. Plus, with curbside pickup and availability on popular delivery platforms, Sweet Fare is accessible whether you want to enjoy an in-person gathering or a casual hangout at home. This combination of excellent food, convenience, and a friendly ambiance makes Sweet Fare a natural choice for rallying your group of friends or family to connect, celebrate, and create lasting memories.
What kinds of activities can groups enjoy at Sweet Fare?
Sweet Fare is primarily a bakery and artisan chocolate shop, so the main activity is indulging in a wide variety of freshly crafted sweets. Visitors can browse and share items such as cupcakes, cookies, key lime pies, and other small-batch desserts, making it perfect for tasting different treats with your friends. Since they offer a range of gluten-free options as well, everyone in your group can find something enjoyable. The space is designed for casual meetups — whether you want to chat over cups of coffee, sample artisan chocolates, or pick up orders together, the experience promotes relaxed socializing. While Sweet Fare has closed its Cary storefront, it still allows guests to pick up freshly made products curbside, or order through delivery services like DoorDash and Uber Eats, making group gatherings easy to coordinate. This flexibility means you can meet up on your terms, whether that’s in-person or enjoying Sweet Fare’s treats together at a chosen venue.
How does Sweet Fare accommodate group meetups and celebrations?
Sweet Fare’s model emphasizes quality and convenience, which is ideal for hosting group meetups and celebrations. Because all their baked goods and chocolates are handcrafted and delivered fresh daily from their sister catering business, the offerings can effortlessly elevate any gathering. Groups can customize orders for special occasions such as birthdays, anniversaries, or casual get-togethers, choosing from a variety of delectable options that cater to diverse tastes and dietary restrictions. Even without an onsite café experience, the ability to arrange curbside pickup or delivery means that groups can plan hassle-free events, bringing Sweet Fare’s sweet delights wherever they want. The bakery’s assortment of artisan chocolates and gummies also provides unique gift and party favor ideas to enhance celebrations. This combination of customization, freshness, and convenient service ensures that Sweet Fare supports both informal meetups and memorable celebrations with ease.
What makes Sweet Fare’s food selection perfect for groups?
The strength of Sweet Fare’s food selection lies in its diversity and quality, which caters well to groups with varied tastes. From cupcakes with creative fillings and frostings to rich key lime pies and luxurious artisan chocolates, the bakery covers a wide range of dessert preferences. The inclusion of gluten-free treats shows attention to dietary needs, ensuring that no guest feels left out. Because the products come daily from Violet River Lane Catering, guests enjoy consistently fresh quality that enhances any group experience. Additionally, the sweets are crafted to be shared — bite-sized cupcakes, cookies, and chocolates encourage sampling and conversation. This naturally interactive aspect fosters connection among friends and family, as everyone can try new flavors and find favorites to enjoy together. The ability to order large quantities or assortments also means groups can easily pick treats that suit their size and occasion.
Why is Sweet Fare a convenient choice for busy groups?
In today’s fast-paced world, convenience can determine the success of group meetups, and Sweet Fare excels in this area. Though the Cary storefront has closed, Sweet Fare still provides easy access through curbside pickup at their Raleigh cafe, allowing groups to gather their orders quickly without long waits or complicated logistics. Their presence on major food delivery platforms like DoorDash, Uber Eats, and Grub Hub offers further flexibility, particularly for groups who prefer hosting at home or elsewhere. This variety of ordering options means that groups can seamlessly integrate Sweet Fare’s treats into any plan, from casual weekend hangouts to robust party celebrations. The efficient service combined with delicious quality ensures that Sweet Fare’s offerings enhance busy social lives without adding stress. Groups gain a reliable source of fresh, high-quality sweets that can be shared easily, making it a top choice for gatherings.
What kind of ambiance and setting can visitors expect at Sweet Fare?
While Sweet Fare no longer has an open storefront in Cary, the existing café in Raleigh and the way the business presents itself online suggest a warm and approachable vibe. The bakery’s focus on handcrafted, local products and specialty chocolates implies a boutique-style environment that appeals to those who appreciate artisan food and community charm. Past visitor reviews highlight the friendliness of staff and a pleasant atmosphere, which naturally supports social interaction and relaxed enjoyment. Though seating may be limited, the welcoming feel makes Sweet Fare a comfortable place for small gatherings or for picking up orders to share elsewhere. The quaintness of a local bakery combined with a curated selection of chocolates and sweets fosters a unique sensory experience that invites you to slow down, savor, and connect with your group. The setting, while simple, is designed to put the focus on great food and good company.
How does Sweet Fare support dietary preferences and variety within groups?
Sweet Fare understands that modern groups often have diverse dietary preferences, and they respond by offering a variety of options that cater to different needs. Gluten-free cupcakes and treats mean that guests with gluten sensitivities can still indulge without worry. The wide assortment of products, from traditional cupcakes and key lime pies to artisan chocolates and gummies, satisfies different palates, whether someone prefers fruity, rich, or classic dessert flavors. This range of choices minimizes the stress of catering to dietary restrictions within a group and maximizes the enjoyment for all attendees. Additionally, since all items are handmade and delivered fresh from their sister catering business, it’s easier to ensure the ingredients and preparation meet quality standards. This thoughtful approach helps make Sweet Fare ideal for groups wanting to celebrate inclusively without sacrificing taste or variety.
Why should groups consider Sweet Fare for their next meetup or event?
Groups looking for a venue or caterer that combines quality, convenience, and charm should consider Sweet Fare for their next event or casual gathering. The bakery’s high rating of 4.5 with over 41 reviews reflects a strong record of customer satisfaction, particularly regarding the freshness and taste of their products. The convenience of multiple ordering options and daily delivery from Violet River Lane Catering streamlines event planning by taking the hassle out of food preparation and sourcing. Sweet Fare’s focus on hand-crafted goods means you’re offering your friends and family something special, not just generic treats. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone, hosting a weekend brunch, or simply catching up over coffee and cupcakes, Sweet Fare provides an accessible way to bring people together with delicious food. Their broad menu and accommodating service model ensure your group event will be smooth, tasty, and memorable.
What additional services or partnerships enhance Sweet Fare’s appeal for groups?
Sweet Fare’s connection to Violet River Lane Catering greatly enhances its appeal for group meetups by enabling broader catering capabilities beyond traditional bakery items. This sister business provides specialty catering services that can complement Sweet Fare’s baked goods, offering a full event solution for parties, corporate functions, or family celebrations. The ability to combine handcrafted desserts with curated catering menus means groups can enjoy a cohesive and professional food experience that meets the needs of any event size or style. Furthermore, Sweet Fare’s distribution through multiple online platforms like DoorDash, Uber Eats, Grub Hub, and The Produce Box extends its reach and convenience, making it easy to order and receive fresh treats anywhere. These partnerships and services position Sweet Fare as more than just a bakery—it's a comprehensive, flexible choice for groups looking to make their gathering special with minimal fuss.